Pentax (Takumar) Takumar Macro Heritage

Overview

The Takumar 50mm f/4 macro is described in the reviews as a series of legendary manual-focus macro lenses for M42 screw-mount cameras, produced by Asahi Optical Co. between 1964 and the early 1970s. It existed in three main variants: the Macro-Takumar 50mm f/4 (1964–1966), the Super-Macro-Takumar 50mm f/4 (1966–1971), and the Super-Multi-Coated Macro-Takumar 50mm f/4 (1971 onward). All three share the same 4-element/3-group optical design, optimized for flat-field reproduction and exceptional sharpness — hallmarks of classic macro lenses. The original Macro-Takumar was differently constructed and reached 1:1 magnification without extension tubes, while the later Super and Super-Multi-Coated versions went to 1:2 (1:1 with an optional extension tube). The reviews use the word 'legendary' to describe the line; no specific community nickname is evidenced. Its cult following stems from its reputation for outstanding sharpness and low aberrations, reflected in near-perfect user ratings (sharpness 9.8, aberrations 9.6) and 100% reviewer recommendation.

Verdict: This is a legendary M42 macro lens prized for exceptional sharpness, well-controlled aberrations and strong value. It is best suited to macro and flat-field reproduction shooters who want a compact, affordable, superbly sharp manual-focus optic; those chasing distinctive bokeh should note its bokeh is its comparatively weakest trait per the reviews.

Optical Character

Bokeh

Bokeh is the relatively weakest attribute, rated 8.7 by users, with specific out-of-focus qualities not described.

Sharpness wide open

Exceptional and consistent sharpness, a hallmark of the lens, rated 9.8 by users and optimized for flat-field reproduction.

Flare resistance

The Super-Multi-Coated variant adds SMC coating for improved flare resistance; earlier variants lack it.

Community Insights

What people love

Exceptional sharpness, rated 9.8 by users and cited as a hallmark of the lens
Very well-controlled aberrations (9.6 rating)
Strong value, with a 9.6 value rating and an average price around $112
Flat-field reproduction ideal for macro work
100% of reviewers recommend it

What people dislike

Bokeh is the relatively weakest attribute, rated 8.7 — lower than its sharpness and aberration scores
Lack of internal focusing (all versions use extending focus)
The original Macro-Takumar reaches 1:1 alone, but the later variants require an optional extension tube for 1:1

Pro Tips

For 1:1 macro without accessories, seek the original 1964–1966 Macro-Takumar; the later variants need the optional extension tube to reach 1:1
Choose the Super-Multi-Coated version if you want the best flare resistance and open-aperture metering on Spotmatic F, ES and ESII bodies
All variants share the same optics, so image quality is comparable across versions — pick based on diaphragm type, coating and magnification needs

Sources (1)

Web-grounded synthesissecondary

The Takumar 50mm f/4 macro is described in the reviews as a series of legendary manual-focus macro lenses for M42 screw-mount cameras, produced by Asahi Optical Co. between 1964 and the early 1970s. It existed in three main variants: the Macro-Takumar 50mm f/4 (1964–1966), the Super-Macro-Takumar 50mm f/4 (1966–1971), and the Super-Multi-Coated Macro-Takumar 50mm f/4 (1971 onward). All three share the same 4-element/3-group optical design, optimized for flat-field reproduction and exceptional sharpness — hallmarks of classic macro lenses. The original Macro-Takumar was differently constructed and reached 1:1 magnification without extension tubes, while the later Super and Super-Multi-Coated versions went to 1:2 (1:1 with an optional extension tube). The reviews use the word 'legendary' to describe the line; no specific community nickname is evidenced. Its cult following stems from its reputation for outstanding sharpness and low aberrations, reflected in near-perfect user ratings (sharpness 9.8, aberrations 9.6) and 100% reviewer recommendation.

https://www.pentaxforums.com/lensreviews/S-M-C-Super-Macro-Takumar-50mm-F4.html